Xi's book added to permanent collection

The Czech Republic's oldest library received donations of books from China Universal Press & Publication Co., Ltd., which is participating in the Book World Prague 2016 book fair in Prague.

The books, which were donated on May 13, will form part of the library's permanent collection ,and include Xi Jinping Wit and Vision - Selected Quotations and Commentary, Contemporary Chinese Art and China Insights.

Known as the oldest library in the Czech Republic, the Strahov Library was built in 1143. It has a collection of about 200,000 old prints, most from between the 16th and the 18th centuries, in addition to around 3,000 manuscripts and 1,500 first prints.

Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a visit to the library during his three-day state visit to the Czech Republic in March. Xi said that he was amazed to see the rich arts and cultural collection in the library and that the Czech Republic has a long history and bountiful cultural heritage, which are the precious wealth of the people.

Xi also said there is great potential for both nations to conduct cultural exchanges and cooperation. He urged both sides to intensify such exchanges and boost mutual understanding to lay a solid foundation for bilateral ties.

"Xi's landmark visit to the Czech Republic has boosted the bilateral ties and cultural exchanges between the two countries", said Wang Yanbing, head of the delegation to the book fair; he is also vice-president of China Architecture & Building Press.

"Following the president's steps, we come to Strahov Library today presenting the books, echoing Xi's call to strengthen exchanges and mutual understanding between the peoples," Wang said.

Wang said there were books in other languages such as English and French besides Chinese, and he hoped the gift would meet the demands of readers of various backgrounds.

Erika Neumannova, deputy director of Strahov Library, thanked the Chinese delegation and said she hoped the books could help Czech people have a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

The English version of Xi Jinping Wit and Vision - Selected Quotations and Commentary was published in the US on May 14, and Korean and Japanese versions are being edited.